Advanced Nutrient Therapy
Advanced nutrient therapy is a prescribed blend of vitamins, minerals and amino acids that mirror our internal chemistry.
Serotonin and other "feel good" neurotransmitters are produced in the brain when the body is given the proper supply micronutrients. Specific vitamins and minerals are required for these complex biochemical processes to regulate our mood, sleep, behavior, and memory. Excessive nutrient deficiencies or nutrient overloads disrupt chemical pathways in the brain.
For example, Vitamin B-6 is an important co-factor in these enzymatic and metabolic processes. If one doesn't have enough Vitamin B-6 in the body, the brain cannot synthesize serotonin during the final step in this stage.
On the other hand, too much of particular mineral in excess, such as copper, causes neurotransmitters (specifically dopamine and norepinephrine) to go "out of balance". Copper overload can lead to high anxiety, emotional meltdowns, sleep disorders, ringing in the ears, and abnormal menstrual cycles. Other imbalances include pyrrole disorder, undermethylation, overmethylation, and toxic metal overload. These conditions typically involve high oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals (that can destroy cells or impair biochemical processes) and our bodies ability to detoxify them or to repair the resulting damage.
Targeted antioxidant protocols may be prescribed to restore proper cellular metabolism and energy production.
Dr. Dana Shaw evaluates each patient for possible biochemical abnormalities, nutrient deficiencies or overloads, and indicators of oxidative stress. Specialized laboratory testing is ordered to assist in uncovering metabolic issues that may be affecting mood, focus, behavior, energy or sleep issues. Dr. Shaw formulates an individualized nutrient therapy program (custom blend of vitamins, minerals and amino acids) in therapeutic consideration to address each patient's unique biochemical needs. A review of current medications and supplements is also considered.